"What happened, Marianne? This place is nothing like it used to be," Eliana said, more worried about the orphanage now than her reason for coming back here. "Compared to give it used t9 be, this place is a ghost town now."
Marianna chuckled, but her eyes were sad. "It has not been easy for us here. Only the money and gifts you and the others send to us are keeping this place and the children here alive. The government no longer supports us, so there aren't enough funds to keep the place the way it used to be. The money we get is always used to purchase food and clothing for the children and to ensure that their sleeping quarters are well taken care of," Marianne said. She took hold of Eliana's hand from across the table. "That is why I am very grateful to all of you children who have grown up and found their way out there. You have never forgotten where you came from. Although you all rarely visit, you have always supported us. For that, I and the children left here are grateful."
